S.H. Figuarts Kintaros and Ryuutaros Imagin (2009)

Seemingly because of Urataros’s shabby sales, Kin and Ryuuta were relegated to being exclusive releases. While this is disappointing, the one positive spin that can be executed is that the two most detailed and utterly beautiful designs were the ones shoved behind the additional-pay wall. Kin is staggeringly gorgeous rendered in plastic and was tight across the board. His fur is hard plastic, while Ryuuta’s coat and trappings are made of a rubbery sort that still veers closer to being hard than soft. They are hinged. I acknowledge that this is a problem for many folks, but for me personally, it is something that I ultimately prefer. Ryuutaros is more than capable of laying on the floor next to Momo’s dining-car table, with his legs bent up. I’d rather he be able to color there than be seated. I know that’s not the case for everyone, though.

While both come with their weapons and tons of hands, and Ryuuta has his ponytail and headphones, there is one great crime: they don’t have their coffees! I’d honestly be pretty close to begrudgingly okay with them being exclusives, if they had both had that crucial accessory. How did they give it to the regular releases, but not these? It boggles the mind.

I personally believe that figure collectors need to invest in dollhouse miniatures, and while I doubt you could find appropriately decorated coffee cups, you can at least track down some 1:12 scale crayons and a coloring book, like I did. Shit, use a scrap of paper for the latter. Ryuutaros deserves it.

Be mindful of every Imagin’s kneepads. If you’re willing to risk potential future sales, carefully gluing them in is an option.

4½ Acts of Violence Perpetrated on Child Characters Capable of Defending Themselves out of 5